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Description: This trip is to validate Trek 18 in the Robert Pepper 4WD Treks Close to Melbourne book. It is a day trip with some challenging driving traversing Mt Robertson State Forest and the Wombelano block of Kinglake National Park. The trek starts in Pheasant Creek and ends in Glenburn, which are both tiny hamlets with a few shops. For anyone who might wish to stay in the area longer, there is camping at The Gums on the Glenburn Eucalyptus Road.

After leaving Pheasant Creek, the route takes us on a scenic forest drive before requiring low range at Battery Spur, where the track drops for about 500 metres, culminating in a creek crossing before a steep climb out of the valley. The route then returns through the State Forest and turns east to proceed through Kinglake National Park before meeting the Melba Highway and finishing in Glenburn.

If you wish to follow the route on your own map, then the Rooftop’s Toolangi – Macedon Adventure Map is best and Rooftop’s Mt. Disappointment – Kinglake Ranges Forest Activities Map includes the State Forest section.

We don't expect to stop anywhere near shops for morning tea or lunch, so bring a thermos and a packed morning tea and lunch.

Weather: Weather should be mild. Bring appropriate clothing and footwear.

Equipment: Vehicles need to have low range 4WD capability with good all-terrain tyres and UHF radio (or one borrowed from the club). Usual recovery gear should be carried.

Trip Standard: Medium - Hard – there is a long, steep descent and ascent and some muddy sections that might prove challenging if it has been wet.

Fuel: A full tank ex Melbourne. Fuel is available in Glenburn

Distance: Approximate distance from Melbourne to Pheasant Creek is 66 km and the trek is 45 km.

Duration:1 day

Convoy limit:10 vehicles.

Meeting arrangements: We will meet at Flying Tarts Bakery, 888 Whittlesea-Kinglake Road, in Pheasant Creek, where there is parking available. We will depart at 9.00am sharp, so if you plan to get coffee beforehand then you will need to arrive a little earlier. We expect to finish by 4:00 in Glenburn (although this is not a long trip and an early finish is possible)